Question

identify and briefly describe the significant physical and physiological changes that occur in the middle and late childhood developmental periods.

Answer 1

The physical changes that occur in middle childhood period are as follows:

By the time children reach their middle childhood their rate of physical growth slows down. Children gain about 5-7 pounds a year and may also end up growing up to 2 inches a year. Usually children tend to become slimmer in their middle childhood. Also, their muscle strength builds up which helps them to endure and engage in physical activities for longer time. The brain also reaches the size of an adult by the age of 7 but however continues to develop even after that. Children by this age are also able to coordinate different activities. They are also able to control their emotional outbursts. Their prefrontal cortex also matures which enhances the ability to pay attention. During middle childhood, children tend to develop their gross motor skills as well as fine motor skills.

The physical changes that occur in late childhood period are as follows:

It is during the late childhood years that one can see puberty changes taking place. The bones of the body becomes more stronger and harder. The weight and height (2-3 inches per year) also increases. By this age, all teeth also are almost developed. All the motor skills tend to get refined by this age. Girls are more likely to excel in fine motor skills and boys are more likely to excel in gross motor skills. Most of the brain development tends to stabilize by this age. Children also develop preference for hand (handedness) by this time.

Hope this answer helps!